Ravi Shankar

Sitar player and composer, influential musician

Ravi Shankar - Sitar player and composer, influential musician
Born

April 7th, 1920
105 years ago

Died

December 11th, 2012
12 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

India

Links & References

An influential sitar player and composer, shaped the global perception of Indian classical music. Collaborated with various artists across genres, introducing the sitar to Western audiences. Played a significant role in the 1960s music scene, often associated with the Beatles. Founded the Ravi Shankar Foundation to promote Indian music and foster cultural exchange. His work included performances at notable festivals and concerts worldwide.

Popularized the sitar in Western music

Performed at Woodstock 1969

Collaborated with George Harrison

Composed for the film 'Gandhi'

Other People Born on April 7th

Dimitrij Rupel

Slovenian politician and diplomat
Born
April 7th, 1946 79 years ago

Served as a key figure in Slovenian politics following the country's independence in 1991. Held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs, contributing to the establishment of Slovenia's international presence. Played a significant role in Slovenia's entry into NATO and the European Union. Also served as the country's ambassador to the United States and the United Nations, representing Slovenia on various global platforms.

Continue Reading

Joël Robuchon

French chef with multiple Michelin stars
Born
April 7th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2018 6 years ago — 73 years old

Acclaimed as a master chef, this culinary figure revolutionized French cuisine and popularized the term 'cuisine moderne.' Opening numerous restaurants worldwide, he garnered a total of 32 Michelin stars, more than any other chef. His flagship restaurant, L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, was celebrated for its innovative approach and high-quality dishes. An influential author, he published several cookbooks that became essential references for chefs and home cooks alike, sharing techniques that blended tradition with modernity.

Continue Reading

Sorana Cîrstea

Romanian tennis player with a top ranking
Born
April 7th, 1990 35 years ago

Played professional tennis since 2006. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 21 in the WTA rankings. Reached the quarterfinals at the French Open in 2009, marking the best Grand Slam performance. Competed in multiple Fed Cup tournaments for Romania, contributing to the country's presence in international tennis.

Continue Reading

John Oates

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Hall & Oates
Born
April 7th, 1948 77 years ago

Born in 1948, a singer-songwriter and guitarist rose to prominence as a member of the popular music duo Hall & Oates. The duo achieved massive commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s, blending rock and rhythm and blues. The partnership produced numerous hit songs that defined the era. The artist also pursued a solo career, releasing various albums and continuing to perform. Engaged in producing and songwriting, contributions to the music industry remain significant.

Continue Reading

Ichinojō Takashi

Mongolian sumo wrestler, yokozuna contender
Born
April 7th, 1993 32 years ago

Born in Mongolia, Ichinojō Takashi began his career in sumo wrestling in Japan, earning a spot in the professional ranks in 2013. After progressing through the divisions, achieved the rank of sekitori, eventually climbing to the rank of maegashira. Notable for a strong and unique fighting style, achieved multiple tournament victories. In 2021, achieved a career-high rank of ōzeki, showcasing remarkable skill and perseverance in a traditional Japanese sport.

Continue Reading

Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Journalist and environmental activist
Born
April 7th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1998 27 years ago — 108 years old

Born in 1890, an American journalist and activist dedicated significant efforts to the conservation of the Everglades. Authored 'The Everglades: River of Grass' in 1947, which transformed perceptions of the region, advocating for ecological protection. Played a crucial role in the establishment of Everglades National Park in 1947, emphasizing the importance of the ecosystem. Engaged in numerous environmental organizations, influencing policy and public awareness regarding conservation. Continued to champion environmental causes into advanced age, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of environmental activism.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 11th

André Lichnerowicz

Mathematician and geometrician
Born
January 21st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1998 26 years ago — 83 years old

Contributions to mathematics include significant work in differential geometry and theoretical physics. Developed the theory of symplectic geometry and introduced the concept of the Poisson manifold. Published extensively on mathematical physics, particularly in the context of general relativity. Collaborated with prominent physicists and mathematicians, influencing various fields of research.

Continue Reading

John Patrick Foley

American Cardinal and Vatican Official
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2011 13 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held significant positions within the Vatican. Oversaw the Vatican's media operations, including the establishment of the Vatican Radio and the Vatican Television Center. Actively participated in the Second Vatican Council and contributed to various papal activities. Engaged in philanthropic efforts, particularly focusing on social justice and education initiatives.

Continue Reading

Adam Elsheimer

German painter of night landscapes
Born
March 18th, 1578 447 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1610 414 years ago — 32 years old

Born in 1578, significant contributions made to baroque painting, specializing in nocturnal scenes. Worked in Rome where the influence of Caravaggio was evident. Pioneered the use of light and shadow, creating atmospheric depth in paintings. His style incorporated meticulous detail and rich color palettes, elevating genre painting. Several of his works were emblematic of the transition from Mannerism to Baroque aesthetics. Died in 1610, leaving a lasting legacy in European art.

Continue Reading

Richard Sagrits

Estonian painter and author
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1968 56 years ago — 58 years old

An Estonian painter and author contributed significantly to the art scene in Estonia. Active during the early to mid-20th century, engaged with various artistic movements through paintings and literature. The works often reflected the cultural and historical context of Estonia. Exhibited paintings in galleries and authored several literary pieces, gaining recognition in both fields. Died in 1968, leaving a legacy in Estonian arts.

Continue Reading

Louis

Grand Dauphin of France
Born
November 1st, 1661 363 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1686 338 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1661, served as the heir apparent to the French throne. His title was Grand Dauphin, reflecting the French royal line, and he was the eldest son of King Louis XIV. Despite a life at court, faced several challenges, including health issues and political dynamics of the time. Briefly held the role of next in line for the crown until death in 1711. His life and position offered insights into the workings of the French monarchy during a crucial period in Europe.

Continue Reading

Simon Jeffes

English guitarist and composer; Penguin Cafe Orchestra
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1997 27 years ago — 48 years old

A guitarist and composer originated from England, contributed significantly to the music landscape through the formation of the Penguin Cafe Orchestra in 1972, which blended classical, folk, and avant-garde styles. The ensemble garnered attention for its unique sound and innovative performances. Jeffes wrote and arranged numerous compositions that showcased a distinct melding of influences, creating a rich auditory experience. The arrangement of pieces such as 'Music from the Penguin Cafe' led to a cult following. Throughout a career spanning over two decades, he worked on various projects resonating with audiences and influenced many musicians.

Continue Reading